Hadhrat Thaanwi (Rahmatullahi Alaih) – Ihyaaud Deen https://ihyaauddeen.co.za An Effort to Revive Deen in Totality Mon, 26 Feb 2024 17:42:17 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.2 The Reasoning of Man Should Always Remain Subject to Wahi https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=21604 Mon, 26 Feb 2024 17:42:17 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=21604

 

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Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thaanwi (rahimahullah) once mentioned the following:

Allah Ta‘ala created man as the most superior of all His creation, only due to the bounty of reasoning and intelligence which Allah Ta‘ala granted him. Therefore, a person should use his reasoning ability and intelligence in the correct way, and he should ensure that his reasoning and intelligence always remains subject to wahi (divine revelation – i.e. he should not employ his reasoning against the divine command of Allah Ta‘ala).

If a person’s reasoning does not conform to wahi (divine revelation), but goes against it, then such reasoning is not considered, and it is on account of such reasoning that we find people, night and day, falling into problems in simple and clear matters (i.e. on account of them leaving the divine command of Allah Ta‘ala which leads one towards complete guidance, they fall into problems and difficulties).

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 11/187)

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The Method to Save Oneself from Sins https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=21536 Mon, 05 Feb 2024 15:41:37 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=21536

A person once came to Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thaanwi (rahimahullah) and mentioned to him that he had a habit of gambling. He asked Moulana for a cure which will enable him to give up this wrong habit. Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thaanwi (rahimahullah) mentioned the following to him:

Self-determination (to leave out the sin) is the cure. Also, you should make it compulsory upon yourself that whenever you commit this sin, you will perform one hundred rakaats of nafl salaah, and you will leave out eating two meals in the day. However, the main cure is self-determination.

Thereafter, this person mentioned that he does not have love in his heart for his parents. Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thaanwi (rahimahullah) advised him to go out of his way to serve his parents, as this will cause his love for them to increase (i.e. Hazrat Thaanwi (rahimahullah) advised him to serve them to the best of his ability with complete love and devotion, knowing well that this is the command of Allah Ta‘ala, and through this, he will earn Allah Ta‘ala’s pleasure and Jannah).

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 11/136)

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The Remedy for Anger https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=21447 Mon, 15 Jan 2024 16:23:45 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=21447

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thaanwi (rahimahullah) once mentioned the following:

If a person becomes angry with someone, then he should either leave the place or ask the person with whom he is angry to leave (i.e. if he has some authority over the person, e.g. one’s worker, he should ask him to leave). He should also drink some cold water (to cool himself down).

If he is extremely angry (and cannot contain his anger, then in order for him to gain control over himself), he should think to himself that Allah Ta‘ala has many rights over us which we are not fulfilling correctly. Despite us erring so much and not fulfilling His rights correctly, He continues to forgive us and overlook our faults. Hence, in the same way, we should also forgive and overlook the faults of His servants. Otherwise, if Allah Ta‘ala were to take us to account (for all our mistakes and shortcomings), then what will our condition be?

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 11/100)

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The Basis of Acquiring Righteousness https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=21386 Mon, 25 Dec 2023 15:42:07 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=21386

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thaanwi (rahimahullah) once mentioned the following:

The basis of one acquiring righteousness is having complete reliance on one’s sheikh, and thereafter adhering to his teachings. However, it is necessary for one to be careful and examine the level of deen of the person one wishes to select as his sheikh to guide him in the path of deen. Otherwise, through choosing the wrong person as one’s guide, one will end up treading on the path of misguidance.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 24/198)

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Acquiring a Special Connection with Allah Ta’ala https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=21278 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 17:10:01 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=21278

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thaanwi (rahimahullah) once mentioned the following:

According to the Sufis, the term “Nisbat (connection)” refers to acquiring a special connection with Allah Ta‘ala and this special connection is a sign of one being a wali of Allah Ta‘ala (a special friend of Allah Ta‘ala).

The way to acquire this nisbat can be summed up in two sentences: (1) Through constantly remaining in the obedience of Allah Ta‘ala (2) Through constantly remaining in the remembrance of Allah Ta‘ala. In other words, that person is regarded as a Saahib-e-Nisbat (a special friend of Allah Ta‘ala) who at all times adheres to the commands of Shariah, refrains from all types of sins and constantly remains in Zikr (the remembrance of Allah Ta‘ala).

Hazrat Thaanwi (rahimahullah) was then asked whether this Nisbat is acquired through the grace of Allah Ta’ala or through one’s effort and actions. Hazrat Thaanwi (rahimahullah) replied that gaining this Nisbat takes place solely through the grace of Allah Ta‘ala and not through one’s effort and actions. However, when one remains constant in adhering to the commands of Shariah and fulfils what Allah Ta‘ala wants from him at all times, then Allah Ta‘ala blesses him with Nisbat.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 24/203)

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A Muslim’s Relationship with Non-Muslim Rulers https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=21175 Mon, 30 Oct 2023 16:44:55 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=21175

In regard to a believer’s relationship with non-Muslim rulers, Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thaanwi (rahimahullah) once mentioned the following:

Having love for the non-Muslim rulers and befriending them is an internal fitnah (i.e. a fitnah that will harm one’s deen, as one will have to make compromises in one’s deen in order to keep them happy), and incurring their anger is an external fitnah (i.e. a fitnah that will harm one’s dunya).

Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) has taught us to seek Allah Ta‘ala’s protection from both these types of fitnahs (i.e. internal and external fitnahs). Hence, the Hadith mentions the following dua that we should make:

اَللّٰهُمَّ إِنِّيْ أَعُوْذُ بِكَ مِنَ الْفِتَنِ مَا ظَهَرَ مِنْهَا وَمَا بَطَنَ

O Allah! I seek Your protection from all fitnahs – those that are apparent (i.e. external) and those that are hidden (i.e. internal).

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 24/208)

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The Criteria when selecting a Sheikh https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=21014 Mon, 09 Oct 2023 15:26:55 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=21014

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thaanwi (rahimahullah) once mentioned:

In the path of seeking self-reformation, it is obvious that a person will be in need of a sheikh (spiritual guide to guide him through the path). However, since many people are unaware of the procedure to follow and the criteria to look for when selecting a sheikh, they err in selecting the right person for their islaah (self-reformation).

Hazrat Thaanwi (rahimahullah) thereafter mentioned that the following criteria should be found in the person one wishes to take as his sheikh (spiritual guide):

1. The person should be well acquainted with the laws of shari’ah, though he may not be an aalim who is an expert in every science of deen.

2. He must have knowledge of the path of tasawwuf and sulook, though he may not be a person who experiences kashf, nor a person from whom miracles or supernatural acts are witnessed.

3. He must have spent a considerable amount of time in the company of a sheikh-e-kaamil (a pious spiritual mentor who has completed his islaah under his mashaaikh)

4. When sitting in his majlis, the general effect that one finds is that one’s love for the dunya decreases and a yearning for the Aakhirah is created (or increases) in one’s heart. Similarly, fear for getting involved in sins and the motivation to carry out good deeds is created in the heart, regardless of whether one experiences any spiritual conditions or not.

Despite the person being a sheikh-e-kaamil, if one does not perceive any benefit through remaining in his company, then one should realize that the reason for this is that one does not have compatibility with the sheikh. Therefore, one should leave this sheikh and seek another sheikh.

Nevertheless, even when one does not find compatibility with a particular sheikh, he should not show any form of disrespect to him. This can be compared to the situation where a certain doctor’s treatment is not proving effective for a person. In such a situation, one will refer to another doctor, but an intelligent person will not run-down or disrespect the first doctor.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 24/323)

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The Formula to Protect One’s Deen and Imaan https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20921 Mon, 11 Sep 2023 14:21:34 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20921

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thaanwi (rahimahullah) once mentioned:

Hazrat Haatim Asamm (rahimahullah) once said, “I feel that until one does not recite some portion of the Qur’aan Majeed daily as well as read or listen to some of the advices and incidents of his sheikh or other mashaaikh of the silsilah daily, his imaan will not remain safe.”

On one occasion, the people enquired from Hazrat Hamdaani (rahimahullah), “When a person’s sheikh passes away, then what should he do in order to safeguard his imaan?”

Hazrat Hamdaani (rahimahullah) replied, “He should study his sheikh’s advices, listen to his teachings and ponder over the meaning of his words. The reason is that through studying his advices and incidents, one will develop a connection with him and with deen, and this connection will then become the means for one to remain firm upon deen and acquire salvation in the Hereafter. The Hadith mentions, “The one who emulates a people will be counted among them (in the sight of Allah Ta‘ala).”

Furthermore, an additional benefit that is acquired through studying the incidents and advices of the mashaaikh and pious saints is that one will realise that one’s speech, actions and condition does not resemble theirs, and as a result, one will feel humbled, and self-admiration and pride will leave one’s heart. Thereafter, one will desire to emulate them and will endeavour to become like them.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummah 15/195)

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The Special Dua of Imaam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah) https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20907 Mon, 04 Sep 2023 15:47:49 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20907

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

When I was young, I came across a kitaab which most probably was written by Mufti Sa’dullah. In this kitaab, I read that Imaam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah) once mentioned, “Whatever goodness I acquired in my life, I acquired it through the blessing of the following dua:

اَللّٰهُمَّ إِنَّا نَسْتَعِيْنُكَ عَلٰى طَاعَتِكَ

O Allah! Indeed, we seek Your special assistance in remaining upon Your obedience!

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) then mentioned:

“From the time I read this, I made a point of reciting this dua regularly. Once, a student who was memorizing the Qur’aan Majeed requested me to give him a ta’weez to assist him in memorizing the Qur’aan Majeed. Upon his request, I taught him this dua and told him to recite it eleven times after the fardh salaah.”

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 24/215-216)

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The Great Bounty of Performing Salaah with Jamaat in the Musjid https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20842 Mon, 14 Aug 2023 15:15:26 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20842

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

A certain policeman who was my mureed held the rank of Deputy Inspector. He once wrote a letter to me in which he said,

“I perform the maghrib, esha and fajr salaahs with jamaat in the musjid, but at the time of zuhr and asr, I have to pass through the market place (to go to the musjid to perform salaah with jamaat in the musjid).

Firstly, when I walk past the people in the market place (to go to the musjid), then people stand up out of respect and honour for me (this is one reason why I feel shy to go to the musjid for zuhr and asr). Secondly, at this time, there are so many people present in the musjid that I feel that if I go to the musjid and perform salaah with them, my dignity and respect will no longer remain among them, whereas this rank and position of Deputy Inspector which I hold requires one to command a great amount of dignity and respect.”

This Deputy Inspector also wrote that he felt shy to perform salaah with all the people (in the musjid at the time of zuhr and asr).

In reply, I wrote to him and said, “If you are living in a place and the conditions change where you begin to feel shy to practise your Islam, then will you leave your Islam as well? Performing salaah with jamaat in the musjid does not cause a person’s dignity and respect to decrease in any way. Rather, it causes respect and love to be created in the hearts of people for one. It is not a cause for one to lose respect in the eyes of people and for them to look down at him. This bounty of performing salaah with jamaat in the musjid is indeed a very great bounty of Allah Ta‘ala.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 26/459)

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The Effective Approach when Treating Spiritual Maladies https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20776 Mon, 24 Jul 2023 13:56:23 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20776

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

When treating spiritual sicknesses and maladies, the way that is most effective is by treating the root cause. The root cause for committing sins is the urge and demand of one’s nafs (carnal desires) to commit sins. Hence, the treatment is for one to refrain from fulfilling those urges and demands by one exercising self-restraint.

If one takes up the courage to oppose his nafs in this manner, then all his spiritual maladies will be treated and rectified. However, if one does not adopt this approach and tries to treat each malady and sickness individually, then this will indeed be an arduous and difficult task.

This approach of opposing the nafs is known as ‘mujaahadah’ (making effort and striving to gain the proximity of Allah Ta‘ala), and engaging in zikr assists one in this mujaahadah. The reason is that through engaging in zikr, one draws closer to Allah Ta‘ala, and this will be the means for one receiving the divine assistance of Allah Ta‘ala through which one’s mujaahadah will become easy.

If one only engages in zikr (without carrying out the mujaahadah of opposing the nafs and leaving sins), then one will not find the desired result.

For this reason, I generally say that two things are important and necessary (in the path of self-reformation); ittibaa and ittilaa.

Note:

Ittibaa is to remain committed to following the guidance and instruction of the Sheikh – spiritual guide.

Ittilaa is to regularly inform the Sheikh of one’s condition, weaknesses, etc. so that one may know how to rectify one’s weaknesses.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 26/438)

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The Basis of Good Character Should Only be Deen https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20732 Mon, 26 Jun 2023 14:40:42 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20732

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

In the world, among the worldly class, showing good character and being honest revolves around acquiring worldly benefit and monetary gain. Since acquiring worldly benefit and monetary gain changes according to the demands of certain situations and conditions, their character and morals also continue to change subject to the situation they are in.

For example, wherever there are prospects of gaining wealth through them fulfilling their promise and being honest, then they will fulfil their promise and conduct themselves with honesty (as their good character and honesty is only motivated by monetary gain). However, if they see that some worldly loss will be incurred through them fulfilling their promise and being honest, then they will choose to lie and be dishonest (as the purpose of them showing good character was only to gain wealth).

On the contrary, the good character and honesty of the people of deen is based on deen (i.e. that deen commands them to show good character and remain honest at all times). Since deen does not change from situation to situation, the character of the people of deen also remains the same in all situations (and is not influenced by wealth).

The governments of today are such that they make promises or pledges on a daily basis and thereafter break their promises or pledges. The reason is that at times, they find that through fulfilling their promises or pledges, they will gain monetary benefit, hence they will fulfil it in such situations, and wherever they find that monetary losses will be incurred through fulfilling their promises or pledges, they opt to break it.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 26/292-293)

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Acquiring the Greatest Bounty – The love of Allah Ta‘ala https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20653 Mon, 29 May 2023 15:02:55 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20653 Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

Remaining in the company of the lovers of Allah Ta‘ala (those servants whom Allah Ta‘ala had granted His special love) is the way to acquire the love of Allah Ta‘ala. Engaging in zikr will assist one to acquire (and increase) the love of Allah Ta‘ala. Abandoning sins is the precondition for gaining the love of Allah Ta‘ala.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 26/159)

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Being Blessed with The Divine Assistance of Allah Ta‘ala https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20545 Mon, 01 May 2023 13:48:53 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20545

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

When the servant corrects his relationship with Allah Ta‘ala, then he receives the divine assistance of Allah Ta‘ala. However, the divine assistance of Allah Ta‘ala does not always come to the servant in the manner that he understands and desires.

Rather, at times, the assistance of Allah Ta‘ala may come in the form of ease and good health, and at times it may come in the form of sickness. This can be likened to the example of a doctor. The doctor’s work is to treat the patient and assist him. However, at times he treats the patient by administering a laxative (causing running stomach), at times he treats the patient by administering a stimulant (through which the patient feels energetic and happy), and at other times, he treats the patient through carrying out a surgical operation. The purpose of all these various treatments is to assist the patient in his condition.

The sign (of one being blessed with the divine assistance of Allah Ta‘ala) is that in whichever condition one may be, his heart is at ease and pleased with the decree of Allah Ta‘ala.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 26/144)

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Du‘aa and the Two Types of Needs of Man https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20476 Mon, 20 Feb 2023 15:58:44 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20476

On one occasion, a person came to Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) and requested for du‘aa. (Together with making du‘aa for the person,) Hazrat Thaanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) mentioned the following advice to him:

There are two types of needs which man has during his life. The first type relates to those matters which a person does not have any control over, such as the need for rain. In regard to this type, it is sufficient for a person to suffice on making du‘aa (supplicating) to Allah Ta’ala to fulfil this need.

The second type (of needs) relates to those matters which are within a person’s control such as planting the crops, engaging in business and trade, etc. The effect of engaging in du‘aa for this type of need is that through making du‘aa, one will acquire barakah in one’s efforts. Hence, we understand that in regard to this type (of needs), it is necessary for one to make an effort as well (and not merely suffice on engaging in du‘aa).

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 26/143)

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Imposing Some Penalty Upon the Nafs https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20398 Mon, 30 Jan 2023 15:35:59 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20398

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

If a person is involved in sins, then one method for him to reform himself is that together with sincerely engaging in istighfaar and towbah, he should also impose some penalty upon himself so that this becomes a cause for him to refrain from falling into the sin in the future. This penalty can either be a physical penalty (e.g. fasting for a period of time) or a monetary penalty (i.e. giving a certain amount of money in sadaqah to the poor).

Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) mentioned in the Hadith that if a person says to someone (inviting him towards gambling), “Come, let me gamble with you,” then he should give some sadaqah.

In this Hadith, we see that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) looked at the cause for one wishing to enter into the sin of gambling. The cause for this is the love for wealth. Therefore, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) prescribed giving some sadaqah as a penalty, as this will cause the love for wealth to leave one’s heart (and this will also prevent him from falling into the sin in the future).

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 23/378)

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The Great Importance of Fulfilling People’s Rights https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20308 Mon, 09 Jan 2023 15:59:15 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20308

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

There is no item in my home regarding which it is not known as to whether it belongs to me, or it belongs to someone else in my household. There is great benefit in this (i.e. making the ownership of each item known to all). If someone passes away, then people will not be in doubt as to who is the owner of each item (i.e. the possessions of the deceased will be known to all), hence, the distribution of the inheritance will be easily and correctly carried out.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 13/214-215)

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Allah Ta‘ala Interceding on Behalf of Women in the Qur’aan Majeed https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20216 Mon, 19 Dec 2022 14:43:19 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20216

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

Men should reflect and ponder over the beautiful manner in which Allah Ta‘ala has interceded on behalf of women in the Qur’aan Majeed saying:

عَاشِرُوهُنَّ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ ۚ فَإِن كَرِهْتُمُوهُنَّ فَعَسَىٰ أَن تَكْرَهُوا شَيْئًا وَيَجْعَلَ اللَّهُ فِيهِ خَيْرًا كَثِيرًا

(O men!) Live with them (your wives) with kindness. If you dislike them, then perhaps you dislike something whereas Allah has placed in it (the thing you dislike) abundant goodness. (Hence, through looking at the abundant goodness in the thing you dislike, you will begin to appreciate it) (Surah Nisaa v. 19)

For example, great rewards are promised for the man who exercises sabr (patience and tolerance) over the ill temper or poor character of his wife. Similarly, through one’s wife, one may be granted pious offspring who will be the means of one’s salvation in the Hereafter.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 23/189)

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The Importance of Punctuality on Salaah https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20148 Mon, 21 Nov 2022 16:36:49 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20148

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

When a person is punctual upon performing his five daily salaah, then he acquires a special noor (light) in his heart, and the effect of this noor then becomes visible on his face.

On the contrary, when a person neglects performing his five daily salaah, then his heart is filled with darkness, and the effect of this darkness is then visible on his face.

In actual fact, when one neglects performing salaah, then it is as if there is a fire that is burning within him. The smoke of this burning fire affects his inner and outer condition (i.e. his heart and face) as it causes darkness to cover both.

The result of the heart being blackened is that it no longer is able to perceive any feeling of disgust or detest for sins such as bribery, speaking lies, slandering people, stealing people’s land and property, taking loans and thereafter denying the loan to avoid repayment, casting lustful glances at women and young lads, adopting the culture and ways of the Christians (Jews and other kuffaar) and many other such evils.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 23/121)

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Avoiding the Talks and Writings of Irreligious People https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20059 Mon, 31 Oct 2022 15:06:25 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=20059

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

If an irreligious person speaks of something relating to deen, then his speech will contain some darkness in it. Similarly, his writings will also contain some type of darkness in it. On the converse, if a righteous person speaks of something relating to the dunya, his speech will contain noor in it.

The reason is that in reality, a person’s speech originates from his heart. Hence, a person’s speech will definitely contain the effect of his heart. (If his heart is pure, the effect of the purity will be seen in his speech and writings, and if his heart is impure, then the effect of the impurity will similarly be seen in his speech and writings.)

When this is the situation, that the speaker’s inner condition is reflected in his speech, and the writer’s inner condition is reflected in his writing, then one should understand that it is extremely important for one to refrain from sitting in the company of irreligious people (those who are not committed to deen) and nor should one ever read their writings.

Reading the writings of an author is akin to sitting in his company. Thus, the very same ill-effects which one will experience through sitting in the company of an irreligious person will be found through reading his books or writings.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 23/117)

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The Example of the One who Makes the World His Goal https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19983 Tue, 11 Oct 2022 04:56:15 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19983

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

Our Sheikh, Haaji Imdaadullah Saheb (rahimahullah), would say that the example of the world and the Hereafter is like a bird and its shadow. The Hereafter can be likened to the bird, and the world can be likened to its shadow. If you catch hold of the bird, then together with you obtaining the bird, the shadow will come with it, and if you catch hold of the shadow (of a bird that is flying), then neither will you acquire the shadow nor the bird.

This does not mean that the one who gets the Hereafter will necessarily acquire abundant wealth of the world. Rather, this means that those who make the Hereafter their goal and acquire the wealth of the Hereafter (through pleasing Allah Ta‘ala and following the commandments of Shari’ah) – Allah Ta‘ala will bless them with true happiness, and peace and contentment in their hearts.

In fact, Allah Ta‘ala will bless them with such peace and contentment that even the kings of the world do not enjoy. Thus, even if a person of the Hereafter does not possess wealth and riches, (then on account of his heart being connected with Allah Ta‘ala and the Hereafter and remaining pleased at all times with the decree of Allah Ta‘ala) he will still be at ease, and with the little that he has, he will enjoy more peace and contentment than others.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 23/83)

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Three Golden Points in the Path of Progress https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19899 Mon, 19 Sep 2022 15:41:25 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19899

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

If a person firmly holds on to three things, then even though he may not become the Junaid Baghdadi of his time, insha Allah he will not be deprived (of acquiring the goodness of deen).

The first thing is that one should completely abstain from all types of sins. The reason is that through committing sins, a type of darkness is created in the heart. Hence, even if the sinner thereafter engages in ibaadah, the noor that he will acquire through the ibaadah will be like the light of a lantern that is covered with a net on account of the light being mixed with the darkness (of sin which has covered the heart i.e. until one does not make sincere taubah, the effects of the sin committed will remain on the heart).

The second thing is that one should not entertain evil thoughts regarding the creation of Allah Ta‘ala, as this (entertaining evil thoughts regarding any person is a sin which) stems from pride.

The third thing is that whenever one finds the opportunity, then to the extent that one can manage, one should engage in zikr and other ibaadaat. Furthermore, one should also spend time in the company of the Soofiyaa-e-Kiraam (the pious servants of Allah Ta‘ala).

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 13/54)

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The Remedy for Entertaining Evil Thoughts regarding People https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19745 Mon, 29 Aug 2022 16:07:35 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19745 On one occasion, a certain person enquired from Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) regarding the remedy and treatment for bud-gumaani (entertaining evil thoughts about people without any proof). In reply, Hazrat Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) mentioned the following:

When an evil thought enters the heart regarding any person, then one should immediately sit in seclusion and think to himself, “Allah Ta‘ala has prohibited us from entertaining evil thoughts about people. Hence, it is a sin for me to entertain such evil thoughts regarding this person, and by me committing this serious sin, there is the fear of me being severely punished in the Hereafter.”

One should thereafter address his nafs saying, “O nafs! How will you bear the severe punishment of Allah Ta‘ala in the Hereafter?!”

After pondering and addressing oneself in this manner, one should sincerely repent and make taubah to Allah Ta‘ala. One should then make dua to Allah Ta‘ala for the person regarding whom one had entertained evil thoughts saying,  “O Allah! Bless him with the great bounties of this world and the next!”

One should repeat this procedure thrice in the day and night. Thereafter, if the evil thoughts still persist, then one should repeat it for a second and third day.

After adopting this procedure for three days consecutively, if the evil thoughts still persist, then one should go to the person regarding whom he has evil thoughts and say to him, “Without any basis or proof, I have begun to have evil thoughts regarding you. Please forgive me and make dua for Allah Ta‘ala to remove this malady from my life.”

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 23/366)

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Clearing One’s Heart of Misgivings regarding People https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19630 Mon, 08 Aug 2022 14:55:12 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19630

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

In today’s times, people’s notion of good character is that one should conduct with people with good character and show them a good face, even though one’s heart is not clear regarding them (i.e. regarding some of their ways or conduct in certain affairs).

However, I am unable to understand how people can regard this to be good character – where one’s heart is unclear, but one’s tongue expresses something else. Instead, I feel that in such a situation, I should rather discuss the issue with the person so that the matter becomes clear and my heart is cleansed of any misgivings. It is good for one to do so, in order that one’s heart and mind becomes clear and the love (and friendship) which was previously enjoyed can once again be restored.

If a person’s kurta becomes dirty, then one option is for him to wear another clean kurta above the dirty kurta. However, another option is for him to send the dirty kurta to the laundry man who will wash and scrub the kurta until it becomes clean, (and thereafter he should wear the clean kurta). Now compare the two approaches and see which one is better. According to us, the second approach is definitely better.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 23/328)

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What to Focus on when Making Zikr? https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19562 Mon, 18 Jul 2022 14:43:27 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19562

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

At the time when engaging in the zikr of Allah Ta‘ala, one should not allow the mind to drift from the zikr one is making, as this will cause the focus and presence of mind to be lost. Rather, one should merely concentrate and focus on the name of Allah Ta‘ala and trying to keep His presence at heart. Making zikr in this manner will prove extremely beneficial.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 23/318)

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Holding a High Opinion of All the Ahlullah https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19497 Mon, 20 Jun 2022 14:51:49 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19497

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

In regard to the Ahlullah (the special and pious servants of Allah Ta‘ala), it is not correct for one to judge between them as to who is greater in rank than the other. Judging between them in this manner is disrespectful.

The reason is that Allah Ta‘ala alone has knowledge of whose position is higher than the others, and who is more accepted in His sight. Hence, one should respect all and maintain a high opinion of all the Ahlullah (the special and pious servants of Allah Ta‘ala).

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 23/301)

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The ill-effects of Haraam https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19400 Mon, 30 May 2022 15:01:34 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19400

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

Just as consuming haraam is impermissible for oneself, similarly it is also impermissible for one to feed one’s family with haraam food. In fact, feeding animals haraam food is also impermissible.

One should ensure that one does not feed animals with haraam. One should dispose of the haraam food by leaving it in some place. Thereafter, if an animal comes and eats it, then there is no problem (and one will not be sinful as one did not feed the animal the haraam food).

Those who feed their children with haraam, then such haraam food creates rebellion and evil qualities in the children.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 23/91)

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The lessons taught in childhood are firmly embedded in the heart of the child https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19249 Mon, 21 Mar 2022 16:11:06 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19249

‘Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

Most people do not pay attention towards the upbringing of their children. They say, “(there is no need to teach him at this stage because) he is still a child,” whereas they do not understand that the values instilled within the child in his childhood are such that they are firmly embedded within him and remain with him till the end of his life. In reality, this is the actual time to mould the character of the child and create the correct Islamic mindset within him. (Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 23/119)

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Adopting a Stern and Hard Approach when Correcting People https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19137 Mon, 28 Feb 2022 15:45:03 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19137

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

Allah Ta‘ala has created His servants with different temperaments. After creating His servants, Allah Ta‘ala has blessed certain servants with special acceptance from His side. Nevertheless, even after receiving special acceptance from the side of Allah Ta‘ala, the natural temperament of the servants will not change.

It is for this reason that some of the special servants of Allah Ta‘ala are soft in their temperament, while others are more stern in their temperament. However, despite the temperaments (and approaches) being different, the intention of all is the same – and that is to correct the weaknesses of people and assist them to reform their condition.

Thereafter, on account of the temperaments being different, their views (and approaches) will also be different. One special servant will prefer to adopt a gentle and soft approach when correcting people, while another special servant will prefer to adopt a stern and hard approach.

Hence, to adopt a stern and hard approach is not always condemned and disapproved of. Rather, it is only condemned and disapproved of in the case where the sternness and hardness is not required and without any benefit (in that case, it will not be regarded as sternness, but hard-heartedness).

On the contrary, when adopting a stern and hard approach is necessary in order to bring about the correct administration of affairs or for the benefit of an individual’s rectification and correction, then the sternness and hardness will be completely commendable and excellent. The reason is that this will not be regarded as being unnecessarily hard, rather it will be considered as being firm for the sake of deen, and this is a demand of imaan (that one becomes upset and angry, for the sake of Allah Ta‘ala, when the laws of deen are broken).

Hence, this approach will not be regarded as extreme – rather it will be regarded as trying to keep people on the straight path. It will not be viewed as being harsh and impolite in one’s approach – rather it will be viewed as adopting a method of improving people’s character and ways. Knowing which approach will be effective to adopt when correcting different people is something that is acquired after many years of experience.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 22/73-74)

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Shukr – The Right of Allah Ta‘ala https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19024 Mon, 07 Feb 2022 15:28:49 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=19024

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

Expressing gratitude over a favour and being pleased with it, considering it to be purely the grace and mercy of Allah Ta‘ala, is the right which the one enjoying the favour owes to the One who bestowed him with the favour – Allah Ta‘ala. It is in reference to this that Allah Ta‘ala says in the Qur’aan Majeed:

قُل بِفَضلِ اللّٰهِ وَبِرَحمَتِه فَبِذٰلِکَ فَلیَفْرَحُوا

Say, “In the bounty of Allah and in His mercy – in that let them rejoice.” (Surah Yunus v. 58)

This form of happiness and joy is actually a form of shukr to Allah Ta‘ala and hence it is praiseworthy and desirable in deen.

However, contrary to this, there is another form of happiness that equates to pride. This is where a person becomes boastful and happy over the bounty, attributing it to his own effort and achievement, and not to Allah Ta‘ala, and this is ingratitude to the One who bestowed the favour. The root cause of this ingratitude is that a person forgets and loses sight of the fact that this bounty and favour can be taken away from him at any moment. It is in reference to this boastful attitude that Allah Ta‘ala mentions in the Qur’aan Majeed:

اِذْ قَالَ لَهُ قَوْمُهُ لَا تَفْرَحْ اِنَّ اللّٰهَ لَا یُحِبُّ الفَرِحِینَ

When his people (the people of Qaaroon) said to him, “Do not be filled with boastfulness (in your happiness), indeed Allah does not like those who are filled with boastfulness (in their happiness).” (Surah Qasas v. 76)

In the case of Qaaroon, he was happy over the wealth itself (not the bounty of Allah Ta‘ala), so look at what an evil end and outcome he met!

When one receives the bounty and blessing, and then reflects that it belongs to Allah Ta‘ala and He may take it away at any time, then the feeling of gratitude that he experiences in his heart at that time is regarded as shukr to Allah Ta‘ala.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 22/176)

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Remaining in the Company of the Buzurgaan-e-Deen is an Obligation https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=18921 Mon, 17 Jan 2022 15:35:40 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=18921

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

The present era that we are experiencing is filled with fitnahs. The fitnahs are so intense that the imaan (and deen) of people is in danger. It is for this reason I regard it fardh-e-ain (obligatory) for people to remain in the company of the Buzurgaan-e-Deen (pious saints, so that they will be able to protect their deen through benefitting from their company).

What doubt can one have that remaining in the company of the Buzurgaan-e-Deen (pious saints) in this era is fardh-e-ain? The reason is that when experience has proven that safeguarding one’s deen and imaan is dependent on spending time in the company of the Buzurgaan-e-Deen, then what doubt can one have that this now is a fardh obligation (i.e. when safeguarding one’s deen and imaan is fardh, then the means through which imaan and deen will be safeguarded will also be fardh, and in these challenging times, this can only be achieved through remaining in the company of the pious).

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 22/229)

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The Power of Du‘aa https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=18828 Mon, 27 Dec 2021 15:33:18 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=18828

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

Du‘aa is an extremely great ibaadah and is the essence of all other ibaadaat. (The reason is that du‘aa is an expression of humility, and this is what is desired in all ibaadaat). However, from all ibaadaat, it is witnessed that people show the least importance to making du‘aa.

Du‘aa is such a thing that even if it is used as a means to beg Allah Ta‘ala to fulfil one’s worldly needs, then too, it is still an act of ibaadah (and one will receive reward for it) – on condition that the du‘aa is made for something permissible in Shari‘ah.

In regard to du‘aa, some people are under the impression that du‘aa is only an act of ibaadah when du‘aa is made for things relating to one’s deen or for works of deen, or when du‘aa is made for seeking success and salvation in the Hereafter. However, this notion is incorrect.

When some people write to me seeking assistance for certain needs or difficulties which they are experiencing, then instead of them requesting me to make du‘aa for their problem, they write, “Please give us some effective amal or some wazeefah to recite for this need or problem.” To such people, I write the following reply, “I do not have knowledge of any such amal which is so powerful that it will alleviate your problem or fulfil your need. However, you should know well that there is no wazeefah or amal that is as powerful and great as du‘aa (hence, you should engage in du‘aa, begging Allah Ta‘ala to remove your problem or fulfil your need).”

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 22/230-231)

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The Secret behind the Success of the Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=18725 Mon, 29 Nov 2021 14:30:24 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=18725

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

Acquiring victory and success is not based on whether the Muslims are few or many in number. Rather, the number of the Muslims is a separate aspect and is not relevant in regard to acquiring victory.

In regard to acquiring victory, there is just one thing that the Muslims need to bear in mind – pleasing Allah Ta‘ala and remaining engaged in the effort of deen. After ensuring that Allah Ta‘ala is pleased with them and engaging in the effort, if the Muslims acquire victory, then they should express gratitude and appreciation to Allah Ta‘ala. Conversely, if they are unsuccessful, then they should adopt sabr (patience).

In reality, a believer is never unsuccessful, though it may outwardly appear as though he is unsuccessful. The reason is that in every situation, he has still acquired the reward of the Hereafter for his effort, and this is the primary objective and goal of every believer.

Once, Hazrat Khaalid bin Waleed (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) selected thirty Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) to stand and face an army of sixty thousand disbelievers. Seeing this, Hazrat Abu Ubaidah (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) said to him, “You will destroy these ummatis of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) (by taking so few warriors).” Thus, Hazrat Khaalid (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) increased the number to sixty Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum), so that each Sahaabi would face one thousand disbelievers. (In this battle, the Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum), with the help of Allah Ta‘ala, were victorious.)

We thus see that the focus of the Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) was not primarily on their numbers, (but was rather on acquiring the divine assistance of Allah Ta‘ala and engaging in the effort to the best of their ability).

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 22/223-224)

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Refraining from Causing Harm to People https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=18608 Mon, 08 Nov 2021 14:07:24 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=18608

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

The thing which I regard most important for myself, as well as for my friends and associates, is that we refrain from causing any harm to any person in any way.

We should not cause any harm to the next person, regardless of whether the harm is physical e.g. through physical abuse, whether the harm is financial e.g. through usurping someone’s wealth or depriving him of any right, whether the harm is through attacking his honour e.g. by humiliating a person or by making gheebah of him, or whether the harm is emotional e.g. by causing a person anxiety and trauma or dealing with him in an impolite manner, thereby hurting his feelings.

If a person errs in this regard and causes any harm or inconvenience to the next person, then he should not regard it below his dignity to apologize and ask for forgiveness.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 22/125)

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Honesty in Business Dealings is the Hallmark of a Believer https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=18474 Mon, 18 Oct 2021 16:05:11 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=18474

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

The Mubaarak Hadith mentions that on the Day of Qiyaamah, the honest businessman will be resurrected with the martyrs, while the dishonest businessman will be resurrected with the evil and sinful people. It is obvious that adopting honesty in business dealings will benefit one in his deen. However, we should understand that it will also benefit one in his dunya.

In the beginning, one may experience some difficulty in business, but through maintaining honesty, one will find that Allah Ta‘ala will grant one immense barakah and blessing.

In the city of Kanpur, there was a certain person who would sell bamboo. Whenever a customer would come to him, he would clearly inform the customer saying, “This bamboo will only last you for so many days.” Hearing this, the customers would turn away and leave without buying the bamboo.

Some people advised him saying, “If you are going to tell the customers that the bamboo will only last you for so many days, they will not buy it and your bamboo will not sell.” However, he replied, “Whether my bamboo sells or does not sell, I do not mind. However, as a believer, I should ensure that I am honest in my dealings and speak the truth to the people.”

Initially, after informing the customers, they would leave him and go to another bamboo seller. This second bamboo seller would speak very highly of his bamboo and would tell the customers that it would last for a long time. Due to this, the customers would buy the bamboo from him. However, as time passed, people realized that the second seller had lied to them as their bamboo would be spoilt after just a few days from the time of purchase. They then returned to the first bamboo seller, as he was honest and his bamboo would last for the time period that he had informed them.

Hence, if a person adopts honesty in his business dealings, then even though he may experience a little difficulty at the beginning, however, once people see his honesty and gain confidence in him, they will continue to support him and he will not experience any difficulty thereafter.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 22/40)

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The True Meaning of Zuhd (Abstinence from Worldly Pleasures) https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=18344 Mon, 20 Sep 2021 15:21:09 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=18344

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

In order for one to inculcate the quality of zuhd (abstinence from worldly pleasures), it does not mean that one completely renounces and gives up all worldly pleasures. Rather, if one reduces his worldly pleasures, this is sufficient for him to acquire the quality of zuhd.

In other words, one should not remain engrossed in the acquisition of worldly pleasures where day and night, one’s concern only revolves around acquiring worldly pleasures, e.g. “I need to prepare such and such delicious meal”, “I need to purchase such and such item from such and such place”, “The rice in a certain place is delicious so it must be brought from there”, or a certain place is renowned and famous for their cream, so one says to people, “Please bring some cream for me from that place.”

In essence, for one to remain engrossed in acquiring delicious food and smart clothing is against the demands of zuhd (abstinence from worldly pleasures). However, if these worldly pleasures and enjoyments come to one on their own, without one making any special effort to acquire them, then in this case, these bounties and worldly pleasures should be regarded as the favour of Allah Ta‘ala. Hence, one should express gratitude to Allah Ta‘ala for receiving this favour.

Similarly, zuhd does not mean that one should eat very little food. In fact, this is not something that is desired in Shari’ah. The reason is that through eating less, one will not be looking after the treasures of Allah Ta‘ala and allowing it to remain full. Similarly, it will not be viewed in the sight of Allah Ta‘ala as it is viewed in the world, that if an employer has to offer a full salary to his employee, and he only takes half, it will be viewed as though he is doing a favour to his employer by taking half. However, in regard to Allah Ta‘ala, this is not the case (i.e. in regard to the limitless treasures of Allah Ta‘ala, one is not doing Allah Ta‘ala a favour by taking less or eating less, rather, Allah Ta‘ala wants us to enjoy what He bestows us with and express gratitude to Him).

At the same time, one should not over-indulge in eating to such an extent that one’s stomach begins to pain and one’s health suffers, due to which one finds difficulty in fulfilling his ibaadaat. Our Hazrat Haaji Saheb (rahimahullah) would often say, in a lighthearted manner, “Look after your body well, but also ensure that you take good work from your body.” In other words, use your body to engage in ibaadaat to the best of your ability.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 22/95)

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The Method to Acquire the Recognition of Allah Ta‘ala https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=18246 Mon, 30 Aug 2021 15:13:32 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=18246

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

Throughout the day and night, man continues to enjoy countless favours and bounties from Allah Ta‘ala. Among the countless favours of Allah Ta‘ala which man enjoys is the favour of eating, drinking, sleeping and other similar comforts. At the time one enjoys any favour, he should ponder over the favour and recognize it to be the favour of Allah Ta‘ala which he has been bestowed with. He should say, “O Allah, this is a favour I have received from You, and I am appreciative and grateful for it.”

Through one pondering over the favours of Allah Ta‘ala and expressing gratitude over them in this manner, he will progress in acquiring the recognition of Allah Ta‘ala in his heart.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 12/70)

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Fearing the Evil of the Nafs https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=17993 Mon, 12 Jul 2021 14:54:57 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=17993

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

A person cannot trust his nafs at any time nor feel safe from its harm. Even though one may reach great heights in piety and perform miracles, or one may become a learned aalim or great wali, but at no point can he feel safe and secure of the evils of his nafs (as he does not know at which point the nafs will lure him towards evil and sin).

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 13/116)

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Creating an Environment of Commitment to Deen https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=17842 Mon, 21 Jun 2021 14:28:46 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=17842

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

In today’s times, the reason for people regarding the injunctions of Shari‘ah to be difficult is that society has become corrupt and most people lack commitment to deen. In other words, if a certain person tries to remain committed to deen, then in the environment he is living in, he will find that the people around him are not committed to deen. In fact, the proportion of people who are not committed to deen compared to those who are committed is ten to one. Thus, since this one person is outnumbered by the ten people who are not committed to deen, he finds it difficult to practise and remain committed to deen. Conversely, if every person in the environment was committed to deen, then people would find it easy to fulfil the injunctions of Shari‘ah and remain committed to deen.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 12/154-155)

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Remedy to become Punctual upon Salaah https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=17617 Mon, 31 May 2021 14:36:47 +0000 https://ihyaauddeen.co.za/?p=17617

Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following:

Once, a person came to me requesting a ta’weez which will make him punctual in performing his five daily salaah. I said to him, “My friend! The verses of the Qur’aan Majeed (used in a ta’weez) do contain some effect. However, I do not have knowledge of such a ta’weez whereby I will be able to cause a policeman to be put into the ta‘weez, and at each salaah time he will emerge, and with his stick, compel you to perform your salaah.

“Hence, instead of giving you a ta’weez, I can rather show you a remedy and exercise through which you will become punctual upon your salaah in just four days. However, this remedy will not prove beneficial for you by you merely enquiring about it and not following it. It will only prove beneficial for you if you diligently practice upon it.

“The remedy is that if you miss one salaah, then you should skip one meal. If you miss two salaah, then you should skip two meals. If you miss three salaah, then you should skip three meals. Likewise, if you miss four salaah, then you should skip four meals. Commence following this remedy and then see whether you will miss any salaah.”

The person to whom I mentioned this was sincere in his desire to become committed and punctual upon his salaah. Thus, he followed this procedure, and people mentioned that in just three to four days, he became punctual upon all his salaah.

(Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 12/175-176)

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